Kesha & Ludacris join the panel for ABC's 'Rising Star' competition

posted by Jason Scott | Popdust
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2 years ago

Book this under: delightful summer news. Our favorite warrior, otherwise known as Kesha, has joined the judging panel for ABC’s upcoming entry into the singing competition landscape, a little show called "Rising Star." The blonde powerhouse joins Ludacris and country superstar Brad Paisley at the table. Josh Groban has been tapped to host the live show.

Set for a June 22nd premiere, "Rising Star" is the network’s second attempt at a singing reality show in recent years, following the one season of "Duets" in 2012. That show starred Jennifer Nettles, Kelly Clarkson, Robin Thicke and John Legend at the panel.

Unlike most of its major network counterparts, Rising Star is hoping to make a big splash this summer, bolstered (mostly) by its live voting component. It will be taped in Los Angeles and aired on the east coast. As contestants sing behind a electric screen, fans at home will be able to vote yay or nay on each performance. If the voting reaches a pre-determined threshold, the wall will rise, revealing the judging panel and a live studio audience. Only then will the finalist have a chance of moving forward in the competition.

This new show comes at a time when singing shows are losing their foothold in the industry. "American Idol," the grandaddy of ‘em all, has plummeted from its perch. Even "The Voice" has dipped to new series lows this season–its sixth installment in three years. Elsewhere, "The X-Factor," helmed by Simon Cowell, was cancelled after only three seasons.

Admittedly, it’s great to see Kesha taking on this new role, especially following her stint in a clinic earlier this year. You go, girl!